Implenia wins large, complex infrastructure project in Germany

DEGES (Deutsche Einheit Fernstrassenplanungs und -bau GmbH) has awarded the contract to build the replacement bridge for A7 Rader Hochbrücke to a joint venture (JV) consisting of Implenia, Plauen Stahl Technologie and Zwickauer Sonderstahlbau. Implenia has the technical lead and is the main contact for DEGES. The total project volume of over EUR 250 million is split between the JV partners: more than EUR 100 million for Implenia and around EUR 150 million between Plauen Stahl Technologie (commercial lead) and Zwickauer Sonderstahlbau.

The new motorway bridge, 1,500 m long and 42 m high, will carry the A7 motorway east of Rendsburg in Schleswig-Holstein across the Kiel Canal and the Borgstedter Enge. The new bridge, which is of steel composite construction, will provide a key link for road traffic to and from Denmark and Scandinavia. The project starts in January 2023 and should be completed by the end of 2026.

During the tender phase Implenia, together with its JV partners, suggested optimisations, designed a convincing construction plan and timetable, and integrated its own expertise in civil engineering, special foundations and formwork from a single source. Implenia also impressed DEGES with its concept for the demanding construction site logistics (working on water and from a canal island, height of the bridge, etc.). 

Christian Späth, Head Division Civil Engineering of Implenia, is excited about the new project: “The planning and construction of the new Rader Hochbrücke is another complex infrastructure project in Germany and fits perfectly with Implenia’s strategy. The award of the contract followed an intense, six-month tender process. We’d like to thank DEGES for the confidence in Implenia and we look forward to continuing our constructive collaboration.”

The replacement of the Rader Hochbrücke is one of many current and upcoming projects involving the replacement or renovation of older motorway bridges in Germany.